As new threats from pandemic influenza join ever-present risks of earthquakes, hurricanes, or bioterrorism, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has issued new recommendations to guide health professionals during emergencies or catastrophic events.

The IOM report, compiled at the request of the US Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, emphasizes the need for state and local public health departments and health care facilities to establish consistent standards of crisis care in the event of disasters that could sicken or injure thousands of individuals.